Blog: Suggestions for beating the heat

Wednesday

Aug 6, 2014 at 10:00 AM

"Summer's warmth, enjoyed byso many people, can be dangerous when the temperature climbs above 90degrees Fahrenheit. In addition to making us fatigued and uncomfortable,unchecked exposure to excessive heat can lead to serious illness and evendeath," according to a Henry County Health Department official.

Rae-Ann Tucker-Marshall Henry-Stark Health Department

The Henry and Stark County Health Departments remind area residents ofthe importance of staying safe in this summer’s heat. RaeAnn Tucker, HealthDepartment Director of Health Promotion states, "Summer’s warmth, enjoyed byso many people, can be dangerous when the temperature climbs above 90degrees Fahrenheit. In addition to making us fatigued and uncomfortable,unchecked exposure to excessive heat can lead to serious illness and evendeath."

Tucker adds, " During hot and humid weather the body's ability to coolitself is affected. When the body heats too rapidly to cool itselfproperly, or when too much fluid or salt is lost through dehydration orsweating, body temperature rises and heat-related illnesses may develop.Heat-related illnesses can range from heat cramps to heat exhaustion to moreserious heat stroke. Heat stroke can result in death and requires immediatemedical attention."

Heat Cramps are muscular pains and spasms that usually occur in the legsor abdomen. Heat cramps are often an early sign that the body is havingtrouble with the heat. Get the person to a cooler place and have him or herrest in a comfortable position. Lightly stretch the affected muscle andgently massage the area. Give an electrolyte-containing fluid, such as acommercial sports drink, fruit juice or milk. Water may also be given. Donot give the person salt tablets.

Heat Exhaustion is a more severe condition. Heat exhaustion oftenaffects athletes, firefighters, construction workers and factory workers. Italso affects those wearing heavy clothing in a hot, humid environment.Signs of heat exhaustion include cool, moist, pale, ashen or flushed skin;headache; nausea; dizziness; weakness; and exhaustion. Move the person to acooler environment with circulating air. Remove or loosen as much clothingas possible and apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin. Fanning orspraying the person with water also can help. If the person is conscious,give small amounts of a cool fluid such as a commercial sports drink orfruit juice to restore fluids and electrolytes. Milk or water may also begiven. Give about 4 ounces of fluid every 15 minutes.

Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that usually occurs byignoring the signals of heat exhaustion. Heat stroke develops when the bodysystems are overwhelmed by heat and begin to stop functioning. Signs ofheat stroke include extremely high body temperature, red skin which may bedry or moist; changes in consciousness; rapid, weak pulse; rapid, shallowbreathing; confusion; vomiting; and seizures. Heat stroke islife-threatening. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number immediately. Ifsomeone you know exhibits signs of heat stroke, emergency assistance isessential.

Everyone is affected by extreme heat; however, those people at higherrisk of a heat-related illness include: older adults, infants and youngchildren, people with chronic heart/lung problems, people with disabilities,overweight persons, those who work in hot settings, users of somemedications, and people who are isolated that don't know when or how to cooloff or when to call for help.

To avoid heat related stress remember:

* Avoid outdoor activities from noon to 4pm.* Use fans or air-conditioners liberally or visit air-conditioned places(shopping malls, libraries, theatres).* Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles.* Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids even if you do not feelthirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.* Eat small meals and eat more often.* Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colorsbecause they absorb the sun’s rays.* Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottestpart of the day.* Take frequent breaks if you must work outdoors and use a buddy system whenworking in excessive heat.* Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning,who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected bythe heat.* Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not sufferingfrom the heat.

For more information on heat safety and other summer survivalstrategies, contact the Health Department at (309) 852-0197 (Henry) or852-3115 (Stark) or visit our website at www.henrystarkhealth.com or find uson Facebook at Henry and Stark County Health Departments.